Boom:::The Slow AF Run Club: Striving to Increase Inclusivity in the Sport of Running…

The Slow AF Run Club: Striving to Increase Inclusivity in the Sport of Running

Running, long known as a symbol of personal achievement, fitness, and endurance, has often been perceived as a sport for the fast and the fit. From Olympic sprinters to elite marathoners, the focus has predominantly been on speed and performance. But for many people, the joy of running is not found in hitting personal bests or competing in races. Instead, it’s about community, self-expression, and simply moving through the world at their own pace.

The Slow AF Run Club (SARC), a movement that has grown significantly over the past few years, is redefining what it means to be a runner. Founded with the mission of creating an inclusive space for slower runners, walkers, and anyone in between, the Slow AF Run Club has become a beacon of accessibility in a sport that can often feel exclusionary. Its message is clear: running is for everyone, regardless of pace or skill level.

The Genesis of the Slow AF Run Club

The Slow AF Run Club was founded by a group of runners who were tired of feeling marginalized because they didn’t fit the stereotypical image of the “fast” runner. The idea was to create a community where people of all paces could come together, support one another, and celebrate their unique running journeys. “Slow AF” stands for “Slow as F—,” a playful and empowering expression that embraces slowness as a legitimate and worthy approach to running.

The club’s creation was, in part, a response to the growing trend of race culture in the running world. Marathons, half-marathons, and other road races often emphasize speed, with “elite” runners occupying the spotlight. These events tend to highlight the top finishers, with slower participants sometimes left feeling like an afterthought. In contrast, the Slow AF Run Club’s ethos revolves around inclusivity, fun, and the acceptance of all paces, whether someone is running 6-minute miles or jogging 16-minute miles.

Changing the Narrative Around Running

At the heart of the Slow AF Run Club is the desire to change how running is viewed by the broader community. Traditional running culture can sometimes create a sense of elitism, where only fast times and podium finishes are celebrated. This can alienate slower runners, who may feel like they don’t belong, or worse, that they aren’t “real” runners because of their pace.

The Slow AF Run Club works to challenge this notion by emphasizing that there is no “wrong” way to run. As the group’s founders often point out, running is not just about speed—it’s about personal growth, mental health, and fostering a sense of camaraderie among people who share a love for movement. In their view, every runner, regardless of pace, should be celebrated for their effort, and every finish line is worthy of applause.

One of the key ways the club works to increase inclusivity is by redefining what “running” means. For many, the word itself conjures images of elite athletes pushing their bodies to the limit, but the Slow AF Run Club shows that running can be a form of self-care, an exercise in mindfulness, and a social activity that can be enjoyed by anyone.

The Importance of Community

Another central focus of the Slow AF Run Club is the creation of a strong, supportive community. This community goes beyond just running—it’s about connecting people who might otherwise never meet, sharing stories, and uplifting each other along the way. By removing the focus from competition and placing it on the journey, the club fosters an environment where runners of all paces can find belonging.

The Slow AF Run Club offers virtual and in-person meetups, creating opportunities for people to run together in a judgment-free space. These events are designed to encourage participants to run at their own pace, with no pressure to keep up with others or meet any time standards. Whether it’s a local 5K, a virtual challenge, or a casual group jog, the emphasis is always on enjoyment, not performance.

Moreover, the Slow AF Run Club provides a platform for sharing running experiences and advice. Members often swap tips on how to stay motivated, how to deal with injuries, or how to navigate the challenges of running while balancing work, family, and other obligations. These conversations help to demystify the sport for people who may feel intimidated by it, particularly those who have been marginalized in more traditional running spaces.

Redefining the “Finish Line”

The Slow AF Run Club is also committed to breaking down the barriers of race-day culture that typically focus on finishing times. Runners who take longer to complete races or events are often overlooked or given the “back of the pack” treatment. In contrast, SARC celebrates every runner, regardless of how long it takes them to cross the finish line.

The club’s founders have been vocal about their desire to see race organizers adopt more inclusive practices, such as ensuring that slower runners have access to the same race-day amenities, like water stations and race medals. Some races, particularly marathons, have a tendency to close down support services early in the event, assuming that the race is “over” once the faster runners finish. This creates a gap for slower runners, who may feel rushed or unsupported in the latter stages of a race.

In response, the Slow AF Run Club encourages its members to advocate for themselves and each other by raising awareness about these issues and pushing for race organizers to provide equitable support for runners of all paces. The club’s influence is helping to create a more welcoming environment for slower runners at races across the country.

Expanding the Reach

While the Slow AF Run Club began as a grassroots movement, it has grown into a national phenomenon with thousands of members. Social media has played a significant role in the club’s expansion, allowing it to connect with people from all over the world. Platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok have allowed the club to share inspiring stories, motivational posts, and tips on how to make running more accessible and enjoyable.

The club’s hashtag, #SlowAFRunClub, has become a rallying cry for people who are looking for a space where they can proudly embrace their pace, no matter how slow it may seem. This online presence has helped to build a global community of runners who share the same values of inclusivity and support.

Conclusion

The Slow AF Run Club represents a crucial shift in how running is perceived and practiced. By embracing runners of all paces and prioritizing inclusivity over speed, the club is changing the narrative of what it means to be a runner. It serves as a reminder that running is not just about competition or performance—it’s about personal growth, connection, and the joy of movement.

As the sport continues to evolve, the Slow AF Run Club stands as a beacon of positivity, welcoming anyone who wants to lace up their sneakers and hit the pavement, regardless of how fast or slow they may be. Through its efforts to increase inclusivity, build community, and redefine the concept of a “finish line,” the club is helping to ensure that the sport of running becomes accessible to everyone. After all, in the Slow AF Run Club, the only thing that matters is showing up and running your own race, at your own pace.